In a recent turn of events that has sent ripples through the college football community, Michigan’s newly hired defensive line coach, Greg Scruggs, has been suspended indefinitely following an arrest for allegedly operating a vehicle while intoxicated. This incident occurred just ten days after his hiring on March 6, marking a tumultuous start to his tenure with the Wolverines.
The arrest took place in the early hours of Saturday, with Ann Arbor Police taking Scruggs into custody around 3 a.m. The news of his suspension was announced later that afternoon by head coach Sherrone Moore, who stated, ‘He made no excuses and has taken accountability for his actions,’ in reference to Scruggs’ ‘unfortunate mistake.’
Scruggs’ history with alcohol-related incidents dates back to his college days at Louisville, where he faced a similar arrest in 2011. His record also includes an arrest in 2013 in Kirkland, Washington, when he was with the Seattle Seahawks. That case was eventually pleaded down to reckless driving. With this latest incident, Scruggs’ future with the Michigan Wolverines is uncertain, as the university and athletic department are currently reviewing the details of the incident.
The implications of an OWI charge are serious, potentially leading to jail time, fines, and suspension of a driver’s license. For Scruggs, this could mean a significant setback in his coaching career, especially considering the high standards expected of coaches at a prestigious program like Michigan, which recently celebrated a national championship.
Scruggs, a former NFL player, brought a wealth of experience to the Michigan staff, having coached Wisconsin’s defensive line last season and serving as an assistant defensive line coach for the New York Jets in 2022. His connection to Moore dates back to their time at Louisville, where they overlapped for three years.
The Wolverines’ coaching staff has seen considerable turnover recently, with Moore stepping in to replace Jim Harbaugh and the addition of Wink Martindale as defensive coordinator. Scruggs was expected to be a key part of this new coaching dynamic, but his future now hangs in the balance as the university deliberates on the appropriate course of action.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the responsibilities that come with being a role model and leader in the sports community. As the details of Scruggs’ case are reviewed, the Michigan Wolverines, their fans, and the college football world will be watching closely to see how the situation unfolds and what it means for the team’s future.
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Michigan assistant Gregg Scruggs is suspended following drunk driving arrest in Ann Arbor: Ex-NFL defensive end was also picked up for DUI in 2011
